If you were in an accident, you should seek medical attention for a number of different reasons. Read on and reach out to our firm today to learn more. Our skilled Panama City personal injury attorneys are on your side.

Do I need to seek medical attention after an accident?

There are probably as many types of accidents as there are types of personal injury claims. But especially when your injury could be the result of someone else’s negligent or intentional conduct, it’s absolutely critical to get prompt medical attention as soon as possible.

  1. Protect your health: The significance of seeing a doctor after an accident may be quite obvious when your injuries are serious. However, in the event that you do not think you have been injured, or when your injuries appear to be minor, it can be compelling to not have a medical professional assess your situation. But seemingly minor symptoms can suggest a serious injury, and whatever is wrong is likely to get worse if left treated. Essentially, seek prompt medical attention after an accident if you feel even the slightest level of discomfort or pain.
  2. To confirm your injuries: If you end up filing an injury-related insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit, you will need evidence to back up your assertions. Not only will the other side (the person at fault for the accident, and/or their insurer or lawyer) want more than your word as to the nature and extent of your injuries, but until you see a medical professional, you will not need to have a complete picture of your injury. The documentation is especially important because, without it, it’s very difficult to acquire compensation for your personal injuries.
  3. To establish causation: The longer you wait to see a doctor after an accident, the easier it is for someone else (like the insurance adjuster) to claim that your injury wasn’t caused by the accident.
  4. Medical attention may be needed for insurance reasons: If you were hurt in a car accident, recognize that some states require that you see a doctor before certain kinds of car insurance coverage can take effect. Especially, some no-fault car insurance states require individuals to see a qualified medical professional within a certain amount of time following the accident. In Florida, drivers have 14 days to get medical care for accident injuries if they want those medical costs reimbursed by their personal injury protection (PIP) coverage.

Contact our experienced Florida firm

Here at Manuel & Thompson, P.A., we understand the potentially devastating effect that an injury can have on an individual and his or her family, which is why we are dedicated to helping all those who’ve been injured due to no fault of their own. Our firm also proudly handles insurance disputes, hurricane claims, fire loss claims, commercial litigation, and construction law matters. To discuss your case with our experienced Panama City personal injury attorneys, contact Manuel & Thompson, P.A. today for your free consultation.